CONTENTS Introduction 1 Being a YASS student 5 Next steps ... · A YASS course can widen your...

CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................1About YASS ..................................................................................................................2Who can study YASS .............................................................................................3Cost ...................................................................................................................................3Course options ..........................................................................................................3Planning your YASS study .................................................................................3Required study time ............................................................................................4Course length ...........................................................................................................4Registering on a course .....................................................................................4

Being a YASS student ...............................................................................................................5YASS study is different to school.................................................................. 6YASS support ............................................................................................................. 6

Next steps .....................................................................................................................................7More than a qualification ................................................................................. 8Demonstrating your skills ................................................................................ 8Skills gained through YASS ............................................................................. 8University and college ......................................................................................... 9YASS and UCAS ........................................................................................................ 9YASS and further OU study ............................................................................. 9Careers and Employability ............................................................................. 10

YASS courses ............................................................................................................................... 11Things to consider before deciding to take a course ...................12Induction .....................................................................................................................12Arts ..................................................................................................................................13Business and management ..........................................................................15Engineering, computing & technology .................................................17Health and social care ...................................................................................... 20Languages .................................................................................................................21Law .................................................................................................................................28Maths ............................................................................................................................29Science ........................................................................................................................32Social sciences ........................................................................................................35Sport and exercise ...............................................................................................38

Hello and welcome to the 2020 YASS guide.

At The Open University – the UK’s largest university, with around 168,000 students worldwide – we offer learning to suit you, anywhere, any time.

With a wide range of courses available, I’m sure that you will find something that appeals, and I hope you will make the decision to join the 7,500 students from Scottish schools who have taken part in YASS so far. If you do, I can’t promise it’ll be easy, but I can promise you will learn a lot, that you will be challenged in new ways, and you will get a real understanding of what it means to study at university level. What you choose to do with that is up to you.

Good luck and happy studying.

Susan StewartDirector of The Open University in Scotland

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INTRODUCTION

About YASS

This guide is designed to introduce you to the Young Applicants in Schools Scheme (YASS), explain what you can study and how it can help develop some of the key skills you will need to succeed when you leave school. YASS is The Open University (OU) in Scotland’s national bridging programme for S6 pupils, supporting you to make the transition from school to higher education. It offers you the opportunity of studying a university level course in school alongside your other S6 studies. It is designed to help develop a range of skills and knowledge that will help you succeed at university, college or in the work place.

Studying with The Open University gave me confidence when applying to universities, writing my personal statement and sitting my university interview. It can be quite hard to prove an interest in your chosen subject (especially something like law where work experience for school pupils can be scarce) but undertaking the YASS course showed that I had a genuine interest in law and was committed to studying it.

YASS student

3 4

Who can study YASS

YASS is open to all S6 pupils in full-time education in Scottish schools. Since the programme began over 7,500 students have studies with us.

Cost

YASS is fully funded by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) and is completely free for pupils in local authority schools. Pupils who attend independent schools can self-fund their course or be sponsored by their school.

Course options

We offer courses in a wide range of subject areas including, Maths, Science, Law, Sport and Exercise, Arts, Language, Medicine and Health and Social Care.

The courses carry 10 or 30 credit points and are first year university-level 1, or SCQF level 7. This means they are equivalent to an Advanced Higher level (for a full list of courses see pages 13 - 38).

Planning your YASS study

We recommend that you start thinking about YASS in S5. This will give you time to choose the right course for you and think about how you will fit your YASS study around your other S6 commitments.

Required study time

Recommended study time depends on the size and length of the course. A 30 point module requires 300 hours of study and a 10 point module requires 100 hours of study. Generally, you will need to set aside 4 - 6 hours a week for 10-point courses and 8 -14 hours for 30-point courses.

Course length

Most courses start in October and finish in March or June. There are exceptions to this and so always check the length of a course before deciding to register on it.

Registering on a course

You must register via your school. If your school is participating in YASS, speak to the designated YASS co-ordinator, they will arrange your registration. If your school does not currently participate in YASS ask a teacher to contact us at [email protected].

There is a dedicated

SECTION FOR TEACHERSat the end of this guide which includes information on registration

5

YASS study is different to school

The key difference to consider is that the majority of your contact with the OU will be by email and you should therefore ensure you check your emails regularly. You will also be expected to complete interactive activities, contribute to forums and participate in real time online tutorials.

In addition, some courses run from October to June, so you will need to continue your YASS studies when you are away from school.

YASS support

Depending on the type of course you take, you will either have a tutor or online study advisor to support you. The OU’s team of education advisors and the Student Support Team can provide tailored support and advice about study techniques, assignments and other study - related queries.

You will also be given an online weekly study planner to keep you on track.

6

BEING A YASS STUDENT

87

More than a qualification

A YASS course can widen your horizons, boost your prospects and build your confidence. Universities, colleges and employers respect and value the skills, knowledge and personal strengths you gain by completing a YASS course. It shows you are up for a challenge, have initiative and can manage your time.

Demonstrating your skills

YASS will help you develop the range of key skills which you can add to job, apprenticeship, university or college applications.

Skills gained through YASSYASS AND YOUR NEXT STEPS

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University and College

YASS can help you prepare for university or college. It will give you valuable insight into the level, pace and type of study you will be doing and help you develop the ability to cope with the different learning styles. You can also study subjects which may not be offered at your school, which could help you decide what you want to study at university or college.

YASS and UCAS

Your YASS study can add valuable content to your UCAS personal statement. YASS courses can be added to the ‘Other qualifications’ section on the UCAS form.

YASS and further OU study

Your completed YASS course could also contribute towards an Open University degree, either when you leave school or in future years.

Careers and Employability

Whilst studying your YASS course (and for three years after you finish) you have full access to our Careers and Employability Service. Support includes:

• Online webinars• Downloadable guides and the Career Planning and Job Seeking Workbook• Online interactive career planning and CV building tools • One-to-one guidance from experienced careers consultants

I think that studying my course has helped not only confirm what I want to study at university but also branch out into other topics that I wouldn’t have considered.

Studying with the OU gave me confidence when applying to universities, writing my personal statement and sitting my interview.

YASS student

YASS student

www.open.ac.uk/scotland/study/young-applicants-schools

FIND OUT MORE

Visit

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YASS COURSES

Things to consider before deciding to take a course

• Entry requirements• Start and finish dates• Required study hours• Exam dates• Required collaboration via online forums• The type of academic support provided• IT requirements• You have a valid email account

Induction

Before starting your YASS course you should complete The Open University’s ‘Being an OU student’ unit on OpenLearn. This will take about 12 hours and you can start anytime. If you do not have time to complete the whole unit, we recommend you complete session 2 as this is most relevant for YASS students. This will help you get off to the best possible start on your YASS studies.

It is also worth completing the short OpenLearn taster courses recommended in the course description sections of this guide. OpenLearn is the Open University’s home of free learning. These materials do not carry any credit but will allow you to try a subject before committing to studying a YASS course. For more information visit:

www.open.edu/openlearn

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This online course focuses on the development of academic reading and writing skills but will also help you make progress in speaking and listening in order to study successfully. It will be useful if you wish to improve your existing competence in academic English whilst studying.

Throughout the course, you will work with a wide range of texts from different subject areas. By exploring different subject areas, you will develop the academic English that is most relevant to your study. You will use your knowledge and experience as you explore ways of reading and writing academic texts. You will also develop your academic listening and speaking skills in an online environment.

The course is made up of 40% reading, 40% writing, 10% listening and 10% speaking. Your interactions with the study materials, your tutor and other students on the course will take place online. You will complete interactive activities, contribute to forums and participate in online tutorials in real time.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:English for academic purposes: How to be a critical reader

OpenLearn is the home of free learning at the Open University, with courses covering a wide range of subjects, many using material adapted from OU modules.

Making Your Learning Count, allows you to take a number of OpenLearn courses relating to the Arts with your selection tailored to your personal academic interests and your plans for study at University.

The assessment tasks you will undertake as part of the Making Your Learning count module will maximise the benefits of the OpenLearn courses you study, helping you plan and reflect on your learning and develop critical academic skills. You will learn to use digital tools for learning and working and explore how feedback and reflection contributes to academic development. You will critically evaluate other students’ work and develop an understanding of how assessment can consolidate your learning.

What you will study

You will need to study 100 hours of OpenLearn short units, choices include:

• Writing fiction

• History and Art History

• Design

• Music theory

• Classical studies and Latin

A full list of available courses can be found here: www.open.edu/openlearn/health-sports-psychology/openlearn-choices-yass-students

ARTS

COURSE TITLE English for academic purposes

CREDITS30

OU CODEL185

DURATIONOctober 2020 to June 2021

RECOMMENDED WEEKLY STUDY HOURS8 – 10

ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments, 1 Interactive computer-marked assignment

REQUIRED ONLINE ACTIVITIESContribute to forums and tutorials

ACADEMIC SUPPORTTutor

ARTS

COURSE TITLE Making your learning count – Arts pathway

CREDITS30

OU CODEYXM130

DURATIONOctober 2020 to March or June 2021


ASSESSMENTS100 hours of OpenLearn units, 1 Tutor-marked assignment,End-of-course assessment

ENTRY REQUIREMENTSOne Higher

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/english-language/how-be-critical-reader/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/english-language/how-be-critical-reader/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

http://www.open.edu/openlearn/health-sports-psychology/openlearn-choices-yass-students


http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/l185

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/yxm130

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This course will develop your language and skills for communicating effectively in the world of business and management. You will learn to write successful business assignments and a range of workplace documents; develop strategies to read complex texts on business topics; be able to give effective presentations and take part in business negotiations and academic discussions.

The materials develop both your written and spoken business communication skills.

This course enhances your language and communication skills needed in the world of business and management through the application of key business concepts and frameworks to real business case studies. The activities will also raise awareness of your own use of language in business communication.

The course has three blocks

1. Analysing and Reporting2. Influencing3. Collaborating

Vocational relevance

This course will develop your language and skills for communicating effectively in the world of business and management.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Business communication: writing a SWOT analysis

BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

COURSE TITLE Communication skills for business and management

CREDITS30

OU CODELB170



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments which include: tutor group forum discussions, a recorded individual presentation, an essay and written reflection


BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

COURSE TITLE Fundamentals of accounting

CREDITS30

OU CODEB124



ASSESSMENTS3 Tutor-marked assignments, Examination June 2021


This course provides a broad introduction to accounting study at the university level. It covers the fundamentals of financial and management accounting as well as the essential skills, knowledge and ethics required to be a professional accountant. You will gain an understanding of financial reports through their preparation, based on the double-entry bookkeeping system which is essential for the management of any organisation.

Professional recognition

This course is designed to offer, on completion, immediate professional recognition by the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB). This accreditation will enable you to gain exemption from both their Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping and Level 3 Diploma in Accounting and Advanced Bookkeeping. On successful completion you will be able to apply to become a Member of the IAB.


This course has vital vocational relevance if you wish to qualify as a professional accountant as this course is designed to be an ideal springboard for such an ambition.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Accounting: Fundamentals of accounting

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/business-communication-writing-swot-analysis/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/business-communication-writing-swot-analysis/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/lb170

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/lb170

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/b124

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/fundamentals-accounting/content-section-overview?active-tab=description-tab

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This course examines the range of human activity that is ‘engineering’, setting current practice in a historical context and looking forward to new developments that will help shape the future. Key scientific principles, mathematical techniques and design methodologies are introduced and explained, to equip you with a basic toolkit on which to build further study. Mathematics is presented in an engineering context to emphasise relevance and build your confidence in framing problems, addressing design challenges and formulating solutions. Reflective practice is encouraged throughout, and you will have the opportunity to share and discuss aspects of your work with other students.


This is the introductory course for all OU engineering qualifications. The learning outcomes for these qualifications are designed to fulfil the Engineering Council’s requirements under UK-SPEC and are accredited by several engineering institutions as fulfilling the educational requirements for professional recognition.

Preparatory work

To ensure you have the appropriate mathematical, technical and IT knowledge and experience you should do the pre-registration self-assessment quiz:

students.open.ac.uk/openmark/engineering.ayrf/

ENGINEERING, COMPUTING & TECHNOLOGY

COURSE TITLE Engineering: origins, methods, context

CREDITS30

OU CODET192


RECOMMENDED WEEKLY STUDY HOURS8 - 10

ASSESSMENTS3 Tutor-marked assignments, 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments

COMPULSORY COLLABORATIVE WORKINGWorking with other students in a virtual engineering studio



COURSE TITLE Introduction to computing and information technology 1

CREDITS30

OU CODETM111

DURATIONOctober 2020 to March 2021

RECOMMENDED WEEKLY STUDY HOURS14



This course will equip you with a comprehensive toolbox of relevant knowledge, understanding and skills and introduce you to issues encountered in computing and IT, including the profound social and ethical challenges posed by these technologies. You will also develop your key skills including communication, numeracy and digital and information literacy (DIL). This will give you a firm basis for further study.


The course has particular vocational relevance for those wishing to develop a career in the computing and IT industry – providing many opportunities to demonstrate relevant technical knowledge and practical IT skills. Throughout the course, you will develop your study skills, digital and information literacy skills and employability skills.

Please see the course website for IT and computing requirements

www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/tm111

http://students.open.ac.uk/openmark/engineering.ayrf/

http://students.open.ac.uk/openmark/engineering.ayrf/

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/t192

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/tm111



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COURSE TITLE Technologies in Practice

CREDITS30

OU CODETM129





ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher computing or related subject

This course provides an opportunity to sample some of the key areas in computing and information technology. You will be introduced to three topics during each block as tasters for your future studies and career: robotics, networking, and Linux.

Studying these topics will enable you to develop essential skills for future employment in the computing and IT industry. You will be applying what you learn by developing an ePortfolio to demonstrate your practical skills and understanding in these areas. By studying this course you can begin to explore where your future career ambitions or interests might lie.

This course requires that you have some experience of studying IT and for this reason you are expected to have studied computing at Higher level.


This course has particular vocational relevance to those wishing to develop a career in the IT industry. It provides opportunities to demonstrate relevant technical knowledge and practical IT skills, and the opportunity to participate in the Cisco Network Academy programme and gain a course completion certificate for Cisco Networking Essentials.

Please see the course website for IT and computing requirements

www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/tm129

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

COURSE TITLE Making your learning count – Health and Social Care pathway

CREDITS30

OU CODEYXM130



ASSESSMENTS100 hours of OpenLearn units, 1 Tutor-marked assignment, End-of-course assessment



Making Your Learning Count, allows you to take a number of OpenLearn courses relating to Health and Social Care with your selection tailored to your personal academic interests and your plans for study at University.


What you will study


• Psychology

• Autism

• Social work

• Forensic psychology

• Dementia








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LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Exploring languages and cultures

CREDITS30

OU CODEL161



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments including a final 1,500-word paper


LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Bon depart: beginners’ French

CREDITS30

OU CODEL192



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments to develop speaking and writing skills. 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments which cover reading and listening


This course is designed to introduce key concepts relating to languages, language learning, plurilingualism and intercultural communication. It will help you develop intercultural skills and language awareness to support and complement the language skills that are covered in language-specific courses. Study resources include printed materials and a dedicated website with online activities which support independent learning. Together, they will introduce you to some of the elements that define studying modern foreign languages and English language studies.

A distinctive feature of this course is that it develops linguistic and cultural awareness in an integrated way throughout the different topics covered in the course, using examples from the full range of languages and cultures that you may study as part of your degree. Throughout the course you will be given a variety of examples and encouraged to compare them to your own experiences.

Further study relevance

This course will equip you with a sound linguistic and intercultural awareness. The former will help you get the most out of your language studies and the latter will help you develop a critical understanding of intercultural issues throughout your further study.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Exploring languages and cultures

This course is designed to develop the skills you need to speak and understand simple French in everyday contexts. It explores life in French-speaking countries and communities, introducing you to a wide range of practical situations such as travelling, shopping, working and eating out. Study resources include printed materials and a dedicated website with a variety of online activities which support independent learning. Together, they’ll give you not just language skills but a real feel for French-speaking cultures too.


This module is designed to enable you to achieve a level of language proficiency equivalent to level A2 of the Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference for languages. You will have developed your knowledge and understanding of the language as well as an awareness of cultural diversity in French speaking countries which form a key part of the learning outcomes for studying at this level.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Beginners’ French: food and drink



https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/exploring-languages-and-cultures/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/french/beginners-french-food-and-drink/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

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LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Rundblick: beginners’ German

CREDITS30

OU CODEL193



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments to develop speaking and writing skills


This introductory course is designed to develop the skills you need to speak and understand simple German in everyday contexts. It explores life in German-speaking countries and communities worldwide through topics relevant to adult learners – such as impressions of Germany, Austria and Switzerland; travelling; lifestyles; cultural events; and technology. Study resources include printed materials and a dedicated website with a variety of online activities – which support independent learning. Together, they’ll give you not just language skills but a real feel for German-speaking countries and communities too.


This module is designed to enable you to achieve a level of language proficiency equivalent to level A2 of the Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Beginners’ German: Places and people

LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Portales: beginners’ Spanish

CREDITS30

OU CODEL194





This course is designed to develop the skills you need to speak and understand simple Spanish in everyday contexts. It takes you through a wide range of practical situations such as travelling, shopping, working and eating out in Spanish-speaking countries. Study resources include printed materials and a dedicated website with a variety of online activities – which support independent learning. Together, they’ll give you not just language skills but a real feel for Hispanic cultures as well.


This module is designed to enable you to achieve a level of language proficiency equivalent to level A2 of the Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Beginners’ Spanish: Getting around


https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/spanish/beginners-spanish-getting-around/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab


https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/spanish/beginners-spanish-getting-around/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

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LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE German Studies 1: language and culture of the German-speaking world (Intermediate German)

CREDITS30

OU CODEL113





ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher German

This course is based around six themes: Geography; Leisure, Culture and the media; Work and education; Traditions and celebrations; History; and Society. Through each theme, you will gradually develop your German knowledge and skills by:

• Familiarising yourself with core vocabulary and grammar

• Learning about and reflecting on language, culture and intercultural communication skills

• Studying with audio recordings and videos featuring speakers of German and their lives and environments

• Engaging in a wide variety of speaking and interactive activities

• Practising direct translation to support your language learning

• Working independently and in collaboration with others

• Reviewing and monitoring your progress using checklists, and reflective questions


This module is designed to enable you to achieve a level of language proficiency equivalent to level B1 of the Council of Europe Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Advanced German: Language, culture and history

LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Vivace: Intermediate Italian

CREDITS30

OU CODEL150





ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher Italian

This course revises and consolidates your knowledge of Italian and teaches more advanced language in the context of society and culture in Italian-speaking communities. It offers insights into many aspects of everyday life in modern Italy, you will have a better understanding of issues that concern Italian people. The study resources – including printed materials and a variety of online resources – are carefully designed to develop the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They provide clear learning objectives, guidance and model answers. This course also teaches good study skills and language-learning strategies.



Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Intermediate Italian: describing people




https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/german/advanced-german-language-culture-and-history/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/german/advanced-german-language-culture-and-history/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab


https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/intermediate-italian-describing-people/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

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LANGUAGES

COURSE TITLE Spanish Studies 1: language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world (Intermediate Spanish)

CREDITS30

OU CODEL116





ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher Spanish

This course takes you to an intermediate level of linguistic competence in Spanish. You will develop your confidence in listening, reading, writing, speaking and interacting in Spanish, as well as your knowledge and understanding of Spanish-speaking societies and cultures. In addition, the course is designed to expand your academic, digital and employability skills in Spanish contexts. You will have the option to study most activities in a book or as interactive online activities on the course website. The website uses authentic online resources in support of independent and collaborative learning.

You will be asked to watch one Spanish-language film that you will need to source yourself. Suggestions for films and more information will be provided when you begin the course.



Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Intermediate Spanish: Understanding spoken Spanish

LAW

COURSE TITLE Law making in Scotland

CREDITS10

OU CODEWXM151

DURATIONPart one: October 2020 to February 2021Part two: February - April 2021


ASSESSMENTS 3 Badged Open Courses,1 End-of-course written assessment

ACADEMIC SUPPORT Study advisers via an online forum

This is a two-part course. To gain the credit you must complete both parts of this course.

Part one: independent learning

During this part of the course you will work wholly independently. You must complete and pass three of the short Badged Open Courses (BOCs) listed below, by the end of January in order to qualify for part two.

The Badged Open Courses (BOCs) offered are: • Law-making in the Scottish Parliament• Law in Scottish courts• Legal skills and arguments• Society and the law: Scottish legal heroes

You must successfully complete three of the BOCs to be eligible to study part two of the course.

Part two – assessment course and credit

Part two of the course builds on the knowledge gained through the BOCs. You will also learn about legal argument, reading for academic purposes, academic writing skills and using evidence to develop a persuasive argument.


This course provides an excellent beginning if you want to expand your understanding of the distinct nature of the legal system in Scotland and the role of the Scottish Parliament.




https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/intermediate-spanish-understanding-spoken-spanish/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/languages/intermediate-spanish-understanding-spoken-spanish/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/wxm151

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/scotland-colleges/boc-options-yass-students

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/society-politics-law/law/scottish-courts-and-the-law/content-section-overview?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/society-politics-law/politics/the-scottish-parliament-and-law-making/content-section-overview?active-tab=description-tab

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/society-politics-law/law/legal-skills-and-debates-scotland/content-section-overview?active-tab=description-tab

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MATHS

COURSE TITLE Discovering mathematics

CREDITS30

OU CODEMU123



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments, 5 Interactive computer-marked assignments, End-of-course assessment


This key course provides a gentle start to the study of mathematics. It will help you to integrate mathematical ideas into your everyday thinking and build your confidence in using and learning mathematics. You will cover statistical, graphical, algebraic, trigonometric and numerical concepts and techniques, and be introduced to mathematical modelling.

The course contains many real-world contexts such as journey planning, glaciers, supply and demand, depreciation, poverty levels, chance events, and medical conditions (such as cancer), to help illustrate mathematical topics.

Preparatory work

Visit our MathsChoices website:

mathschoices.open.ac.uk/

Here you will find advice about where to begin your study in maths and you can take a self-assessment quiz to help you decide if this is the right course for you.

MATHS

COURSE TITLE Introducing statistics

CREDITS30

OU CODEM140



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments, 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments, End-of-course assessment


This course is designed for people who have not studied statistics before. It focuses on the application of statistics, adopting the attitude that statistics is about solving problems. The methods that are covered are not specific to one field of application alone but apply to all areas in which statistics is used which include: business; government; industry; medicine; the economy; and most academic subjects. Topics covered include: summarising data; examining relationships; randomness and sampling distributions; probability; testing hypotheses; and estimation.

A key element of this course will be the development of skills in interpreting and communicating results.


This course may help you to gain membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA). For further information, see the IMA website.

Preparatory work

Before undertaking this course, we recommend that you work through courses 1–6 and course 8 on our Maths Help website:

mathshelp.open.ac.uk/

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/mu123

http://mathschoices.open.ac.uk/

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/m140

http://mathshelp.open.ac.uk/

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MATHS

COURSE TITLE Essential mathematics 1

CREDITS30

OU CODEMST124



ASSESSMENTS4 Tutor-marked assignments, 4 Interactive computer-marked assignments, Examination June 2021


ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher maths

This course provides a broad foundation for university-level mathematics. It teaches you the essential ideas and techniques that underpin university-level study in mathematics and subjects such as physics, engineering and economics. You will use mathematical software to solve problems and develop your skills in communicating results and defining problems.

There are 12 study units. In the first two units you will revise and extend the basic mathematical knowledge and skills in basic algebra and graphs. These will help you identify and fill any gaps in your previous knowledge and develop your basic mathematical skills to the level that you will need in the rest of the course. These units also teach you about communicating mathematics and introduce you to the mathematical software that you will use in the course.

Preparatory work

Much of the material in the first two units will be available online, so you can make a start on revision before the course begins.

There is also an ‘Are you Ready’ quiz so you can check if this course is an appropriate level for study for you

mathschoices.open.ac.uk/are-you-ready-quizzes/mst124-quiz

SCIENCE

COURSE TITLE Physics and space

CREDITS30

OU CODESM123





COMPULSORY COLLABORATIVE WORKINGStudy with other students via the course forums from the first month

ENTRY REQUIREMENTHigher maths or higher physics

In this course you will examine fundamental concepts in physics and the space sciences. Its nine topics and practical activities will help prepare you to study physics, astronomy or planetary science.

Topics

• Forces around you

• An introduction to energy

• Material worlds

• The quantum realm

• Energy in society

• Nuclei and particles

• Components of the Universe

• Exploring the Solar

• How the Universe works


You will develop your problem-solving abilities and improve your computing, mathematical and communication skills. These are valued in all work contexts.

Required preparatory work

Before you can register on this course you must complete the ‘Are you ready for SM123’ self-assessment course at:

www.open.ac.uk/courses/Courses/media/Courses/Qualification/Infographics/SM123_self-assessed-quiz.pdf

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/mst124

http://mathschoices.open.ac.uk/are-you-ready-quizzes/mst124-quiz

http://mathschoices.open.ac.uk/are-you-ready-quizzes/mst124-quiz

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/sm123

http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/Courses/media/Courses/Qualification/Infographics/SM123_self-assessed-quiz.pdf



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SCIENCE

COURSE TITLE Contemporary topics in science

CREDITS10

OU CODESMX150

DURATIONOctober 2020 to March 2021


ASSESSMENTSOnline courses,End-of-course written assessment

ACADEMIC SUPPORTStudy advisers via an online forum

This innovative and flexible course allows you to tailor your study by choosing from a list of topics across all the science disciplines. This course will make use of OpenLearn and other OU topic content. Depending on the length of the topics chosen, you may focus on one topic or study three different topics. The end of course assessment will explore what you have learnt along with the skills you have developed to be a successful science student.

Single topic subject choices include:

• Galaxies, stars and planets which explains how the Sun gets its energy and how astronomers observe the Sun and its interior as well as providing an introduction to the planets and their satellites

• Molecules, medicines and drugs: a chemical story which focuses on the chemistry that underlies the development of drugs and medicines that relieve pain and effect cures as well as how drugs interact with and affect their target areas in the human body

• Plants and people which explores the role that plants play in our everyday lives, in food, biofuels, bioplastics and medicines as well as their role in combating climate change

• The Frozen planet which explores the wonder of the polar world and explains how ice has shaped and controls our planet

Or alternatively you can make up your own topic by choosing three topics from the following options:

• An introduction to exoplanets

• Astronomy with an online telescope

• Citizen science and global biodiversity

• Discovering chemistry

• Microgravity: living on the International Space Station

• Moons of our Solar System

• The science of alcohol

• The science of nutrition and healthy eating

• Understanding antibiotic resistance

• Understanding autism

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SOCIAL SCIENCES

COURSE TITLE Economics in context

CREDITS30

OU CODEDB125





SOCIAL SCIENCES

COURSE TITLE Making your learning count – Social Sciences pathway

CREDITS30

OU CODEYXM130





Why are markets so powerful in most economies today? What is the role of the government in different economies, and how does this role shape opportunities of different people and firms? What explains global inequalities? Why is economic growth such a key goal in most countries today? Are there other goals economies could pursue? You will unravel similar questions, using insights from recent history, key economic thinkers, and drawing on economic perspectives and examples. This course is a building block towards a critical perspective on economics and economic choices for our daily lives.

This course has three primary aims:

• To provide you with foundations of economics and an initial set of skills and tools economists use

• To provide an insight into how economics and the economies have evolved over time

• To engage with various perspectives within the economics discipline and outside it, and embed standard economics in context.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:Exploring economics: the secret life of t-shirts


Making Your Learning Count, allows you to take a number of OpenLearn courses relating to Social Sciences with your selection tailored to your personal academic interests and your plans for study at University.


What you will study


• Geography and Environmental Studies

• Philosophy

• Politics and International Studies

• Social Policy and Criminology

• Sociology and Religious Studies


http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/dd126



https://www.open.edu/openlearn/society-politics-law/exploring-economics-the-secret-life-t-shirts/content-section-0



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SOCIAL SCIENCES

COURSE TITLE You and your money

CREDITS30

OU CODEDD126



ASSESSMENTS3 Tutor-marked assignments, End-of-course assessment


This course has three primary aims, to:

• Give you the knowledge, skills, tools and confidence to manage your own money well

• Provide an introduction to the social sciences, especially economics, relating them to the real world in which we live

• Gently build and practice your study skills and employability skills as a strong foundation for your further studies at the OU and life beyond

Throughout the online weeks, you will share in the lives of 12 households, two each from the UK, USA, Germany, Sweden, Brazil and India, so you can compare financial experiences from across the globe and the factors that influence them.

There are no prior requirements for studying this course. You will need to use some basic mathematics (decimals, percentages, fractions, reading simple tables and charts). Week 1 of the course provides a self-test and additional materials to help you refresh or develop these skills before you start your studies proper. A few further simple numerical techniques (such as averages) are fully taught in subsequent weeks.

Preparatory work

Look at the free short taster OpenLearn course:You and your money

SPORT AND EXERCISE

COURSE TITLE Making your learning count – Sport and Exercise pathway

CREDITS30

OU CODEYXM130






Making Your Learning Count, allows you to take a number of OpenLearn courses relating to Sport and Exercise with your selection tailored to your personal academic interests and your plans for study at University.


What you will study


• Sport coaching and psychology

• Sport media and culture

• Science and wheeled sports

• Motivation

• Nutrition


http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/modules/db125

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/money-business/personal-finance/you-and-your-money/content-section-0?active-tab=description-tab





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The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England and Wales and a registered charity in Scotland (SC 038302). The Open University is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Image credits: Unsplash/ sam-balye/ adeolu-eletu/ ales-nesetril/ charles-z/ jacek-dylag/ josh-appel/ michael-longmire/ neonbrand/ laika-notebooks/ roel-diercken/ Raw-Pixel/tommy-bebo.

All information in this guide is indicative and correct at the time of going to press.

www.open.ac.uk/scotland/study/young-applicants-schools

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